What are the responsibilities and job description for the Research Associate position at Strand Research?
ROLE: Research Associate / Haircare ScienceAbout Strand Research
Strand Research is a biotechnology startup dedicated to developing and optimizing novel molecules, including small molecules, peptides, and polymers, for consumer applications, with a primary focus on hair. Positioned at the crossroads of science and beauty, our mission is to address the most significant challenges in hair care faced by consumers today. We are committed to innovation driven by rigorous data and relentless pursuit of efficacy, creating solutions that will set new industry standards and redefine what is possible in hair care.
We are at a stage of rapid growth, and looking for results-driven, high octane, resourceful individuals who thrive in a fast-paced, high intensity environment.
The Role
We are seeking a Research Associate to support our haircare science program, with a focus on chemical treatments that affect hair structure and appearance. This role will involve preparation and analysis of experimental systems, development and optimization of novel treatment processes, and hands-on wet-lab work in a dynamic R&D environment.
The position is on-site, Monday through Friday, at our labs in Cambridge, MA, with a start date in September 2025.
Key Responsibilities
- Prepare and test experimental formulations focusing on altering or improving the structural, chemical, and aesthetic properties of hair
- Prepare and maintain buffers, stock solutions, and reagents; ensure consistent experimental conditions
- Maintain accurate, detailed records of all experiments and observations in lab notebooks and digital systems
- Operate and maintain basic analytical instrumentation, including pH meters, spectrophotometers, and colorimeters
- Assist in the design of experimental plans with a focus on creativity and out-of-the-box thinking
- Participate in the development of SOPs and protocols to support scale-up and translational efforts
- Collaborate closely with senior scientists and formulation chemists to iterate rapidly on experimental findings
Qualifications
- B.S. or M.S. in chemistry, biochemistry, chemical engineering or a related discipline
- Experience with wet-lab chemistry techniques: buffer preparation, pH adjustment, pipetting, UV/Vis spectroscopy
- Familiarity with various hair products and treatments (shampoos, conditioners, hair masks, oils, bleaching/dyeing) is a strong plus
- Strong organizational skills and attention to detail, with a focus on reproducibility and rigor
- Comfortable working independently to troubleshoot and optimize experimental systems
- Strong communication and collaboration skills; comfortable sharing results and insights with a multidisciplinary team
- Motivated by the opportunity to help build disruptive technologies that redefine the consumer experience
Why Join Us?
- Competitive salary and benefits including healthcare
- Opportunity to join cutting-edge research that leads to real-world developments
- A supportive and collaborative work environment with close mentorship for both personal and professional growth
To Apply
Please submit your resume and cover letter detailing your research experience and interest in the position to victorp@strand-research.com
Please note: This position is full-time on-site at our laboratory in Cambridge, Massachusetts. Unfortunately, we are unable to sponsor work visas at this time.